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What factors contributed to the dominance of the Congress party in the early years after India’s independence?
Congress had a strong organizational structure, legacy from the freedom movement, and mass appeal. It was the only party with a nationwide presence and included leaders from diverse backgrounds.
Who was the first Prime Minister of India from the Congress party?
Jawaharlal Nehru (1947-1964).
Which event marked the beginning of the Congress party’s decline in dominance?
The 1967 general elections, when Congress lost power in many states for the first time.
What was the main ideology of the Congress party during the Nehru era?
Democratic socialism, secularism, and a mixed economy, with a focus on state-led industrialization.
Which elections are considered the most significant in consolidating Congress’ dominance?
The 1952 general elections, where Congress won 364 out of 489 seats in the Lok Sabha.
What role did Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel play in strengthening the Congress party?
Patel helped integrate princely states into India, strengthened party discipline, and had strong support among conservative and business groups.
What was the impact of the 1967 general elections on the Congress party?
Congress lost its monopoly in many states, leading to the rise of coalition governments and non-Congressism.
What is meant by the term ‘Congress system’?
Coined by Rajni Kothari, it refers to Congress acting as a dominant party, with opposition functioning within the Congress structure itself rather than as a real alternative.
How did regional parties challenge the Congress’ dominance in the 1960s and 1970s?
Regional parties like DMK, Akali Dal, and others gained power by focusing on local issues, caste mobilization, and linguistic identities.
What was the impact of the Green Revolution on Congress’ rural support base?
It led to economic growth but also widened inequality, causing dissatisfaction among small farmers and marginal groups.
Why was the Congress party called a ‘coalition of interests’?
It included various social, economic, and ideological groups, such as industrialists, peasants, workers, and elite politicians, maintaining broad appeal.
What role did Jawaharlal Nehru play in shaping the Congress’ policies?
Nehru promoted democratic socialism, secularism, and the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) while strengthening India’s planning and industrialization policies.
How did the Congress party respond to the challenges of non-Congressism?
By implementing welfare policies, using charismatic leadership (Indira Gandhi), and sometimes even misusing state power (e.g., Emergency 1975-77).
Which states witnessed the first major defeats for Congress in the 1967 elections?
Bihar, Punjab, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh.
What were the key reasons for the split in the Congress party in 1969?
Indira Gandhi clashed with the old Congress leadership (‘Syndicate’) over Presidential elections and socialist policies, leading to a split into Congress (O) and Congress (R).
Who became the leader of the Congress after its split in 1969?
Indira Gandhi led Congress (R) (Requisitionists), which later became the real Congress.
What were the ideological differences between the Congress (O) and Congress (R)?
Congress (O) was conservative & pro-business, while Congress (R) under Indira Gandhi promoted socialist policies & welfare reforms.
How did Indira Gandhi consolidate her position within the Congress party?
By implementing pro-poor socialist measures like bank nationalization, abolishing the Privy Purses, and using the slogan ‘Garibi Hatao’ (Remove Poverty).
What role did caste and community dynamics play in Congress’ electoral success?
Congress built alliances with Dalits, minorities, and OBCs, ensuring mass appeal across social groups.
How did the Emergency (1975-77) affect the Congress party’s popularity?
Congress lost support due to authoritarian rule, press censorship, mass arrests, and forced sterilization campaigns. This led to its defeat in the 1977 elections.
